CPMR signs ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ with Organisation of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation

The CPMR has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Organisation of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC). This very positive step will mean the two organisations can work closely together to boost prosperity in the Black Sea area.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed at the CPMR’s offices in Brussels by CPMR Secretary General,Eleni Marianou, and BSEC Secretary General, Ambassador Michael B. Christides.

CPMR Secretary General, Eleni Marianou, said: “We are delighted to sign this memorandum which will enable the CPMR and BSEC to deepen their cooperation on issues of common interest, to improve opportunities and economic development, and secure stability in the Black Sea region.”

The BSEC Organisation is a fully-fledged regional economic organisation promoting regional economic cooperation and contributing to enhancing economic stability, peace, security and prosperity, as well as friendly and good neighbourly relations, among its Member States.

BSEC Secretary General, Ambassador Michael B. Christides, said: “This memorandum is a valid continuation of the relationship that BSEC and the CPMR established some time ago. It is an important step forward because we now have a structured framework to further promote our interaction and achieve our common goals through joint projects and activities.”

The MoU will mean that the CPMR’s Balkan & Black Sea Commission (BBSC) will be able to collaborate more closely with BSEC on activities and issues of common interest, as well as further developing partnerships in the Black Sea Region.

The CPMR is already a Sectoral Dialogue Partner of BSEC, and parts of their geographical areas of activity coincide, so this mutual co-operation will increase the impact of their respective programs and mean they can achieve their common objectives more effectively.

It will also avoid duplication of activities, and ensure that the respective expertise, knowledge and understanding of the two organisations can be brought together for the interests of citizens in the regions.

As well as sharing expertise, both organisations will collaborate on the promotion and organisation of workshops, conferences and training seminars, the development of projects, and the dissemination of activities through publications, workshops and conferences.

It is anticipated that the collaboration will focus on several areas including Transport (Maritime Transport, & Accessibility), Social & Economic Cohesion, Environment & Energy, Tourism, Trade, Economic Development and SMEs, Science and Technology, and Information & Communication Technologies.